Tesla's outspoken CEO, Elon Musk, has once again raised eyebrows, this time by calling out President Joe Biden. The bone of contention? Biden's apparent prioritization of union support over the environmental benefits of electric vehicles (EVs). Musk’s criticism came in response to a recent social media post from Biden that seemed to focus more on who was building America’s future EVs rather than the environmental imperative behind it.
A History of Tension
The relationship between Musk and Biden has been complicated ever since Biden assumed office in February 2021. While the President has made it clear that he sees EVs as crucial to America’s future, his repeated refusal to acknowledge Tesla’s role in revolutionizing the auto industry has been puzzling. Notoriously, Biden has positioned GM CEO Mary Barra as the leader in EV innovations, saying, “You led,” sparking outrage among Tesla supporters.
US President Biden pats GM CEO’s back: “You electrified the entire auto industry. You led.”
The Union Debate
Biden’s strong support for labor unions, particularly the United Auto Workers (UAW), has also been a point of contention for Musk. The Tesla CEO has never shied away from his disdain for unions, frequently alleging corruption and inefficiency. Despite inviting the UAW to hold a vote at Tesla factories, the union has yet to take him up on the offer.
Yet Biden's backing of the UAW is not merely symbolic; it’s politically strategic as he eyes re-election. His allegiance to organized labor is aimed at solidifying support among blue-collar workers, though it has come at a cost for companies like Ford and General Motors, who were forced into concessions that led to costly strikes and halted production.
What's at Stake?
The main reason the U.S. government has been pushing hard for the adoption of EVs is their environmental benefits. Yet a recent post from Biden’s official Facebook account stressed, “The future of electric vehicles will be made in America by union workers.” Musk's retort was swift and pointed:
“Biden cares a lot more about whether Tesla is unionized than whether Tesla is saving the environment.”
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 29, 2024
For Musk, the focus should be on who is building the vehicles. His frustration stems from the numerous bipartisan infrastructure and climate bills designed to make electric vehicles more accessible, and to fund the expansion of EV charging networks, which Tesla has been instrumental in creating.
Changing the Narrative
EVs owe their ubiquity to Tesla’s ongoing disruption of the traditional automotive industry. According to Musk’s 2006 Master Plan, Tesla’s mission has always been about sustainable energy and reducing pollution. While consumers might be enticed by EVs for their high performance or cutting-edge tech, Tesla’s essence lies in minimizing dependence on fossil fuels.
Musk’s recent comments highlight a growing concern – is the political narrative overshadowing the environmental mission? For him, it’s clear: the President's union focus could be misplaced if it means undermining the primary goal of environmental preservation.
Do you agree with Elon Musk’s standpoint? Your thoughts and opinions are always welcome at the Super Veloce newsletter.